Textile einishing composition comprising aqueous solution of aminoplast and textile impregnated therewith



United States Patent TEXTILE FINISHING COMPOSITION COMPRISING AQUEOUS SOLUTION OF AMINOPLAST AND TEXTILE IMPREGNATED THEREWITH Henry G. Goodman, Jr., White Plains, N.Y., assignor to Union Carbide Corporation, a corporation of New York No Drawing. Original application Mar. 11, 1959, Ser. No. 798,579, now Patent No. 3,024,246, dated Mar. 6, 1962. Divided and this application Jan. 27, 1961, Ser.

16 Claims. (Cl. 26029.4)

The present invention relates to improvements in the treatment of cellulosic fibrous material. More particularly, the invention is especially concerned with the treatment of cellulosic textile materials such as fibers, yarn or fabrics prepared principally from cotton, viscose, cellnlom acetate or other cellulosic compounds, said treatment involving the impregnation of the textile material with novel finishing compositions comprised in an important part of thermosetting resin-forming compounds together with certain improved softening agents, the latter compounds independently constituting new compositions of matter. As herein employed the term impregnation is meant to include procedures by which the material being treated is coated with the finishing compositions. The invention is concerned further with novel processes for the production of the softening agents of this invention; as well as with cellulosic textile material possessing improved physical properties, said cellulosic textile material having been treated with the finishing compositions of this invention as herein described.

The modification of cellulosic textile material by chemical treatment has, over recent years, resulted in an increased interest in such material for uses which were heretofore restricted to synthetic textiles. By way of illustration, a prominent application lies in the production of so-called wash and wear fabrics wherein the cellulosic textile material is treated by initially impregnating the material with a finishing composition consisting of an aqueous solution containing a thermosetting resin-forming compound, and ordinarily, an acid-producing catalyst. The impregnated cellulosic textile material is subsequently dried and cured, thereby at least partially polymerizing the resin-forming compound in situ and effecting a chemical bonding of the resin or resin-forming compound with the ccllulosie textile material. The polymerization and bonding processes are accelerated by the presence of the acid-producing catalyst.

When treated in this manner, the impregnated cellulosic textile material has been found to evidence substantially improved crease-resistence and dimensional stability. Unfortunately, however, certain disadvantages ordinarily accompany the treatment of cellulosic textile material by impregnation with a thermosetting resin-forming compound as hereinabove described. Included among these disadvantages are a loss of tear strength in the impregnated material, and the impartation thereto of a harsh hand or feeling. In order to overcome these disadvanrages, softening agents have frequently been incorporated in, or utilized in conjunction with, the finishing composition with which the cellulosic textile material is treated.

Most softening agents are long-chain organic compounds which have the ability to lubricate the fibers of the material being treated, thus permitting the fibers more freedom of movement and improving the tear-strength of yarn or fabric containing the treated fibers. In addition, an enhanced hand is produced by the amount of softening agent located on the surface of the treated material.

To qualify as an eflicient softening agent for use in conjunction with the treatment of cellulosic fibrous mo- 3,095,395 Patented June 25, 1963 tterial, and. particularly cellulosic textile material, by impregnation with a thermosetting resin-forming compound as hereinbefore described, the softening agent should evidence or possess the following desirable characteristics. Both the chlorine retention of the softening agent and its tendency to yellow or cause yellowing in the treated material should be at a The softening agent should also improve the tear-strength and hand of the treated material without adversely effecting the crease-resistance or other important physical properties of the treated material to any substantial extent. In addition, it is desirable that the softening agent be compatible with and stable in the finishing composition so as to permit incorporation therein, thus facilitating a simultaneous impregnation of the material to be treated with both the resin-forming compound and the softening agent.

The first softening agents employed for the treatment of cellulosic textile material were of the anionic type, such as sulfated tallows or toll oils. These compounds proved initially effective, but their effectiveness was dissipated rapidly during subsequent laundering. Cationic softening agents such as quaternized fatty amines have also been considered attractive because of their substantive pick-up by the cellulosic textile material. Their use, however, frequently suffered the attendant disadvantage of an increased tendency toward yellowing in the treated material, while their effectiveness was often lost after relatively few launderings. These disadvantages of the prior art can now be overcome and still further improvements realized, through the practice of the present invention.

This invention is based upon the discovery that certain novel heterocyclic organic compounds, viz. methylolated imidazolidonyl ethyl acylarnides wherein the acylarnide radicals possess at least about 8 carbon atoms, serve as improved softening agents for cellulosic fibrous materials, and are particularly suited for use in conjunction with the treatment of ceilu-losic fibrous material with a thermosetting resin-forming compound. Illustratively, by treating, i.e. impregnating or coating a cellulosic textile material with a finishing composition comprised of an aqueous solution containing a thermosetting resin-forming compound, at least one of the novel softening agents of this invention and, preferably, an acid-producing catalyst, and by subsequently drying and curing the treated material, impregnated cellulosic textile material can be obtained possessing a high degree of tear-strength and evidencing a smooth hand. Moreover, the improved cellulosic tex tile products of this invention advantageously retain these desirable physical properties, as well as other properties acorn-able as a consequence of impregnation with a thermosetting resin-forming compound, to a substantial extent even after repeated launderings, with little or no concomitant yellowing. Further, in addition to the treatment of cellulosic textile material, the finishing compositions of invention can be employed in s'unilar manner and with like advantageous effect to treat other cellulosic fibrous material, such as paper products prepared principally frorn cellulosic fibers.

More particularly, the softening agents of this invention are the N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol irnidazolidon- 2-yl-l)ethyl] acylamides represented by the general formula:

wherein R designates a monovalent saturated or unsaturated aliphatic radical possessing at least about 8 carbon atoms and preferably from about 12 to about 22 carbon atoms, as for instance an alkyl radical such as an octyl, decyl, dodecyl, tetradecyl, octadecyl or docosyl radical; an alkenyl radical such as an octenyl, decenyl, tetradecenyl, octadecenyl or docosenyl radical; and the like. Of the above aliphatic radicals, the designation R preferably represents an alkyl radical. In addition, mixtures of N-methylol-N-[2-(B-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yll)ethyl] acylamides, wherein more than one monovalent aliphatic radical of the type hereinabove described is present, can also be employed as softening agents in accordance with this invention.

It has been found that the effectiveness of the softening agents of the invention increases in direct relationship with respect to the number of carbon atoms in the aliphatic radical designated above by R. Thus, by way of illustration, greater tear strength and a smoother hand is evidenced by cellulosic textile material treated with the finishing composition of the invention as herein described, wherein the softening agent is such that R designates an alkyl radical possessing 17 carbon atoms, as compared with identical textile material similarly treated, wherein however, the softening agent is such that R designates an alkyl radical containing only 11 carbon atoms. In this connection, the methylolated irnidazolidonyl ethyl acylamides represented by Formula I above, wherein R designates a monovalent aliphatic radical possessing less than about 8 carbon atoms have not been found suitable for use as softening agents in accordance with the invention.

The methyl-olated imidazolidonyl ethyl acylarnides can be prepared by a two-step process involving the initial condensation of a fatty acid, or aliphatic fatty acid ester, with Z-(imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethylamine, the latter compound being represented by the formula:

ll HN/ \NCH2CH:NH|

H: H, (II) so as to form the corresponding N-[Z-(imidazolidon-Z-yl- 1)ethyl] acylamide intermediate, represented by the general formula:

wherein R designates a monovalent aliphatic radical containing from 1 to 22 carbon atoms. This intermediate product is then methylolated by reaction with either formaldehyde or paraformaldehyde so as to produce the desired N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l) ethyl] acylamide. It is to be observed that the softening agents of this invention are produced by selecting the fatty acid or aliphatic fatty acid ester reactant such that the acyl radical contained thereby possesses a monovalent aliphatic radical designated by R, wherein R is as defined above, i.e., contains at least about 8 carbon atoms.

The 2-(imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethylamine reactant can itself be obtained from any convenient source. The compound can, for example, be produced by processes such as those described in U.S. Patent 2,613,212 by the reaction of diethylene triamine with urea at a temperature of between about 100 C. and about 300 C. The resulting product need not be purified, but can, if desired, be employed in crude form for subsequent reaction with either a fatty acid or an aliphatic fatty acid ester as herein described.

The condensation of the 2-(imidazolidon-2-yll)ethylamine with a fatty acid to produce the N-[Z-(imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethyl]acylamide intermediate is carried out by heating a mixture of the reactants at a temperature of between about 30 C. and about 200 C. or slightly higher, and preferably at a temperature of between about C. and about C., while removing the water formed during the course of the reaction. The concentration in which the reactants are employed is not critical to the process although the ethylamine derivative is preferably utilized in at least a stoichiometric proportion. Generally, a suitable solvent such as xylene or toluene is also incorporated in the reaction mixture. Such a solvent further serves as an entraining agent, thereby facilitating the removal of water as an azeotropic mixture with the solvent during the course of the reaction. Under such conditions, the condensation is performed by azeotropically refluxing the reaction mixture. However, the condensation can also be carried out in the absence of an azeotroping agent, as for example, by utilizing an elevated reaction temperature and ordinarily a reduced pressure sufficient to permit the removal of water formed during the reaction.

In a similar manner, the condensation of the Z-(imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethylamine with an aliphatic fatty acid ester to produce the N-[Z-imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethyl] acylamide intermediate is carried out by heating a mixture of the reactants at a temperature of between about 30 C. and about 200 C. or slightly higher, and preferably with reflux and at a temperature of between about 100 C. and 150 C., while removing the alcohol formed during the course of the reaction. The aliphatic fatty acid ester employed as a reactant is preferably one represented by the general formula: RCOOR", wherein R is as defined above, and R" independently designates a monovalent saturated or unsaturated aliphatic radical and preferably an alkyl radical. More preferably, R" designates a monovalent aliphatic radical such that the corresponding alcohol, R"OH is a lower boiling alcohol than ROH. Thus, the alcohol R"OH, formed during the condensation, can readily be removed by a suitable adjustment of the reaction temperature, in this manner precluding the possibility of producing substantial quantities of mixed products containing more than one type of monovalent aliphatic radical. The concentration in which the reactants are employed is not critical tothe process, although the ethylamine derivative is preferably utilized in at least a stoichiometric proportion. It has also been found generally desirable to incorporate in the reaction mixture a catalytic amount of a conventional transesterification catalyst such as an alkali metal alkylate, e.g. sodium ethylate or potassium ethylate, and the like, said catalyst preferably being employed in a concentration of from about 0.1 to about 1 percent by weight and preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.5 percent by Weight based upon total weight of the reactants, although higher or lower concentrations can also be employed. It is to be noted in this respect that the catalyst can also be produced in situ, as for example, by the incorporation of an alkali metal and an alkyl alcohol in the reaction mixture in amounts suflicient to provide therein a catalytic amount of alkali metal alkylate.

The completion of the condensation of the Z-(imidazolidon-2-yl-l)ethylamine with either the fatty acid or the aliphatic fatty acid ester as hereinabove described can be determined conveniently by a cessation in the formation of water or of alcohol respectively that is produced during the course of the reaction. Upon completion of the condensation, the resulting N-[Z-(imidazolidonQ-yl-l)ethyl] acylamide intermediate can be recovered from the crude reaction product in any suitable manner. A satisfactory procedure, for example involves distilling off any remaining solvent, generally under reduced pressure, and thereafter cooling the residue to about room temperature or somewhat lower, whereby the desired intermediate is recoverable in solid form. The product can subsequently be purified by recrystallization from a suitable solvent such as methanol. Other suitable recovery procedures can also be employed. For example, the crude product obtained upon completion of the condensation can be cooled as indicated above, without the prior distillation of any remaining solvent. The desired intermediate can then be separated in solid form; any solvent that is present remaining in the liquid phase. Moreover, the crude reaction product itself can be employed for the subsequent methylolation, thus completely obviating the necessity for utilizing a recovery procedure.

The methylolation of the N-[Z-(imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)- ethyHacylamide intermediate iscarried out by heating an aqueous mixture or solution containing the intermediate and either formaldehyde or paraformaldehyde' at'a temperature of between about 20 C. and about 100 C. or slightly higher and preferably at a temperature of between about 30 C. and about 60 C. The proportion in which the reactants are introduced is not critical to the process although stoichiometric proportions are preferably used. Thus, for example, 2 moles of formaldehyde are required to methylolate the primary and secondary aminonitrogen atoms contained in one mole of the N-EZ-(irn-idazolidon- 2-yl-1)ethyl]acylarnide intermediate. It has been found particularly desirable to carry out the methylolat-ion in the presence of a catalytic amount of an alkaline catalyst such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, triethanol amine, sodium carbonate, or the like, the catalyst preferably being employed in a concentration-,suflicient to engender a pH value of from about 8 to about 1 in the reaction mixture. Higher or lower concentrations of catalyst can also be utilized, although increasing saponification of the resulting product may render the use of higher catalyst concentrations less desirable. In addition, a suitable solvent such as water, methanol, ethanol, etc. is generally incorporated in the reaction mixture.

Upon completion of the methyloiation, the rmulting N-methylol-N- [2-( 3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyl] acylamide can be recovered in any convenient manner. A suitable recovery procedure, for instance, involves neutralizing any remaining alkaline catalyst by the addition of dilute acid such as dilute sulfuric acid or dilute acetic acid, and thereafter distilling off the solvent, when present, preferably under reduced pressure. The N-methylol-N-[2-(3- methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethyl1acylamide product can subsequently be recovered in solid or semi-solid form, i.e. as a solid, paste, gel, etc., by cooling the residue to about room temperature or somewhat lower. The crude reaction product can then be purified, if desired, by recrystallization from a suitable solvent such as methanol or employed directly for use as a softening agent as herein described. Generally the N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyl1acylamide is dispersed in water and employed as an aqueous dispersion. Such dispersions are readily dissolved or emulsified in the finishing compositions of this invention.

In further accord with this invention, the N-methylol- N [2-( 3-rnethylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyljlacylamides prepared by the above reactions are employed as softening agents for cellulosic fibrous material by incorporating the product in a finishing composition consisting of an aqueous solution containing a thermosetting resin-forming compound, at least one of the softening agents of the invention, and preferably, an acid-producing catalyst such as those commonly utilized in conjunction with the production of thermosetting resins or with the impregnating of textile material by thermosetting resin-forming compounds. Suitable catalysts, for example, include Z-amino- Z-methylpnopanol-l hydrochloride, magnesium fluoroborate, monoethanolamine hydrochloride, and the like. The use of such a catalyst, however, is not essential to the invention. Of the thermosetting resin-forming compounds suitable for use in the invention, particular good results can be realized using an aminoplastic resin-forming compound such as the 1,3-dimethylol-5-alkyl-perhydrotriazones, urea-formaldehyde, melamine-formaldehyde, tetnamethylol acetylene diureine or cyclic ethylene ureal ormaldehyde (1,3-di-methylol imidazolidone-Z), etc.

More particularly, the finishing compositions of this invention are generally comprised of from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight and preferably from about 5 percent to about 12 percent by weight of the thermosetting resin-forming compound, from about 0,1,percent to about 5 percent by weight and preferably from about 0.3 percent to about 2 percent by weight of at least one of the softening agents of this invention and, when the use of an acid-producingicatalyst is desired, from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight and preferably from about 1 percent to about 2.5 percent by weight of said acid-producing catalyst, Water constituting the principal remaining constituent of the finishing composition. It has also been found desirable to incorporate in the finishing composition small amounts of both a surface-active wetting agent, for example from about 0.1 percent to about 0.5 percent by weight of a compound such as an alkyl phenyl polyethylene glycol ether or the like, and a bodying agent, as for instance from about 1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of a compound such as polyvinyl alcohol, a cold water-soluble starch ether, or the like. Still other finishing agents, such as waterrepelling agents, can also be incorporated in the finishing compositions in minor amounts. In addition the proportions of the individual components of the finishing compositions of the invention can, in light of this disclosure, be varied by those skilled in the art within somewhat broader ranges, depending upon the amounts desired to be picked-up by the material being treated. Moreover, satisfactory results can be obtained by incorporating the softening agents of the invention, preferably in amounts as hereinabove prescribed in any finishing composition conventionally employed to impregnate a cellulosic textile material with a thermosetting resinforming compound, and particularly with an aminoplastic resin-forming compound.

In practice, the cellulosic fibrous material to be treated is immersed or otherwise subjected to contact with the finishing composition of the invention until impregnated or coated therewith to a desired extent in accordance with conventional padding operations. The treated material is then dried generally while substantially wrinkle-free and preferably by air at a temperature of up to about C. Thereafter, the treated material, still desirably maintained substantially wrinkle-free, is cured by heating the material at a temperature of from about C. to about 160 C., and preferably at a temperature of from about C. to about C., for a period of from about 1 to about 5 minutes. Other conventional drying and curing operations can also be employed. The cured material is subsequently generally neutralized and washed, especially when an acid-producing catalyst has been incorporated in the finishing composition. The neutralization can be effected, for example, by immersing the cured material in an aqueous solution containing small amounts, i.e. up to about 0.1 percent by weight of sodium carbonate. The cured material is then washed with water until all traces of alkali are removed, and again dried. Ordinarily, temperatures of up to about 60 C. have been found satisfactory for use in such operations.

It is to be observed that the amount of finishing composition that impregnates the material being treated can be controlled during the padding operation. Thus, for example, by decreasing the roll pressure of the padding mangle, when such an apparatus is employed, the matcrial being treated is impregnated with increasing amounts of the finishing composition. The amount impregnated can also be controlled by varying the proportions of the various components of the finishing composition. In accordance with the present invention, suitable techniques are employed to insure the impregnation of the material being treated with preferably from about 3 percent to about 15 percent and more preferably from about 5 percent to about 12 percent by weight of the thermosetting resin-forming compound, preferably from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent and more preferably from about 0.3 percent to about 2 percent by weight of at least one of the softening agents of this invention, and, when the use of an acid-producing catalyst is desired, preferably from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent and more preferably from about 1 percent to about 2.5 percent by weight of said acid-producing catalsyt. Further, good results can be achieved by impregnating any cellulosic fibrous material with a conventional amount of a thermosetting resinforming compound and a softening agent of this invention in an amount as herein prescribed.

The invention and the advantages accruable in accordance therewith, can be illustrated further by the following specific examples of its practice.

EXAMPLE I A reaction mixture consisting of 412 grams (4 moles of diethylene triamine and 120 grams (2 moles) of urea was charged to a 1 liter three-neck flask and slowly heated to a maximum temperature of 190 C. until ammonia evolution had essentially ceased. The crude reaction product was then fractionally distilled, whereupon 207 grams of a substantially pure Z-(irnidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethylamine product was obtained at a temperature of from 156 C. to 180 C. under a pressure of 0.5 mm. of mercury.

EXAMPLE II To a 1 liter three-neck flask equipped with a reflux condenser and decanting head there were charged 142 grams (0.5 mole) of stearic acid, 65 grams (0.5 mole) of 2- (imidazolidon-Z-yl-)ethylamine obtained as described above in Example I and about 30 cubic centimeters of xylene. The charge was refluxed at a temperature maintained in the range of from 170 C. to 190 C. while the water formed during the ensuing reaction was collected in the decanter as an azeotropic mixture with xylene. Upon completion of the reaction, as indicated by a cessation in the formation of water, heating was discontinued. The reaction mixture was then cooled to room temperature, whereupon N-[Z-(imidazolidon-Z-yl- 1)ethyl]stearamide was obtained as a wax-like solid prodnot. The product was purified by recrystallization from methanol and dried. Analysis of the product indicated the following properties: melting point: 124 C. to 125 C.; elemental analysis for nitrogen: calculated for C H O N 10.6 percent; found, 10.6 percent.

Ninety-nine grams (0.25 mole) of the N-[Z-(imidazolidon-2-yl)ethyl]stearamide product obtained as described above, 16.5 grams (0.55 mole based upon formaldehyde) of the paraformaldehyde and 600 ml. of water were charged to a 1 liter three-neck flask and heated to a temperature of 60 C., with stirring. To the heated reaction mixture, 0.25 gram of sodium hydroxide dissolved in a small amount of water was added, and heating then continued at a temperature maintained in the range of from 60 C. to 70 C. Heating was discontinued when the reaction mixture assumed a milky, jelly-like consistency. Upon cooling to room temperature, the resulting N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl- 1)ethyl]stearamide product was recovered in essentially a quantitative yield as a white paste, calculated to contain about 18 to 19 percent solids, by weight. A portion of the paste was stirred well with methanol, filtered and dried. Analysis of the purified N-(Z-(S-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethyl]steararnide product indicated the following: melting point: 89 C. to 90 C.; elemental analysis for nitrogen: calculated for C H O,N 9.2 percent; found 9.4 percent. The product was found to be an effective softening agent in accordance with the invention.

EXAMPLE III The procedures described above in Example 11 were repeated employing, however, as the 2-(imidazolidon-2- yl-1)ethylamine reactant, the crude product obtained by heating a reaction mixture consisting of 612 grams (6 moles) of diethylen-e triamine and 240 grams (4 moles) of urea to a temperature of 210 C., and subsequently distilling otf the excess diethylene triamine under reduced pressure until a vapor temperature of 15 5 C. at 1 mm. of mercury pressure was reached. Upon completion of the methylolation, the N-methylol-N[2-(3-rnethylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethyl]stearamide thus produced in essentially a quantitative yield was found to be an effective softening agent in accordance with the invention.

EXAMPLE IV In a manner as described above in Example II, a mixture consisting of 108 grams (0.5 mole) of a commercial grade of palmitic acid (Emersol 621, acid number: 256.3, equivalent weight: 217), 65 grams (0.5 mole) of 2-imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethylamine, obtained as described in Example I, and cc. of xylene were refluxed while removing the water formed during the course of the reaction as an azeotropic mixture with xylene. Upon completion of the reaction, the remaining xylene was distilled off under reduced pressure. The liquid residue was poured into a shallow pan and allowed to cool to room temperature, whereupon N-[Z-(imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethyl]palrnitamide was recovered as a waxy, light-tan solid product.

A mixture containing 41.5 grams (0.125 mole) of the N- [2-imidazolidon-2-yl-1 )ethyl]palmitarnide product obtained as described above, 8 grams (0.27 mole based upon formaldehyde) of paraformaldehyde and 50 cc. of methanol was heated to a temperature of 50 C., with stirring. To the heated reaction mixture, 1 cubic centimeter of a 10 percent aqueous sodium hydroxide solution was added, and heating then continued at the same temperature until a clear, straw-colored solution was ob tained. The methanol was thereafter distilled off under reduced pressure and the remaining residue cooled to room temperature whereupon Nanethylol-N-[Z-(B-mcthylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethyl]palmitamide was recovered in essentially a quantitative yield as a clear gelatinous product. The product was found to be an effective softening agent in accordance with the invention. For subsequent use as a softening agent, the N-methylol- N- [2-( 3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyl] palmitamide product was dissolved in 50 cc. of water, forming a clear aqueous solution containing 50 percent by weight of the softening agent.

EXAMPLE V The procedures described above in Example IV were repeated employing, however, as the 2-(imidazol-idon-2- yl-1)ethy1amine reactant, the crude product obtained by heating a reaction mixture consisting of 612 grams (6 moles) of diethylene triamine and 240 grams (4 moles) of urea to a temperature of 240 C. and subsequently distilling off the excess diethylene triamine under reduced pressure until a vapor temperature of C. at 1 mm. of mercury pressure was reached. Upon completion of the methylolation, the N-rnethylol-N-[Z-(S-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethylJpalmitamide thus produced in essentially a quantitative yield was found to be an effective softening agent in accordance with the invention.

The above procedure utilizing a crude Z-(imidazolidon- 2-yl-1)ethylamine reactant was also repeated employing, however, as the fatty acid reactant, lauric acid (Neofat 12, equivalent weight 200.5). Upon completion of the methylolation the N-methylol-N-[2 (3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-Uethyl] lauramide thus produced in essentially a quantitative yield was found to be an effective softening agent in accordance with the invention.

EXAMPLE VI To a 500 milliliter three-neck flask there were charged 244 grams (approximately 1 mole) of a commercially available methyl myristate (Uniphat A-SO, described as consisting of 2 percent by weight methyl laurate, 4 percent by weight methyl palmitate and 94 percent by weight of methyl myristate), 109 grams (1 mole) of 2-(imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethylamine obtained as described in Example I and 1.7 grams of sodium as sodium ethylate. The

mixture, which formed a two-layer system, was gradually heated under reduced pressure, whereupon the charge became homogeneous. Heating was continued, under a pressure of 1 to 2 millimeters of mercury, to a kettle temperature of 150 C., at which temperature a sample of distillate showed signs of crystallization upon being cooled to room temperature. The entire reaction mixture was then cooled to room temperature, whereupon N-[2- (imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethylimyristamide (also containing small amounts of the corresponding lauramide and palmitamide) was obtained as a white waxy solid prodnot. The product was recrystallized from 95 percent ethanol in a 251 gram (78 percent of theoretical) yield.

A mixture containing 113 grams (0.33 mole) of the N t2-(imidazolidon-2-yl-l ethyl1myristamide product obtained as described above, 22 grams (0.67 mole based upon formaldehyde) of paraformaldehyde and 200 cubic centimeters of methanol were charged to a 500 milliliter three-neck flask and heated to a temperature of 50 C., with stirring. To the heated reaction mixture, 1 cubic centimeter of a percent sodium hydroxide solution was added, and heating was then continued at the same temperature until a clear, straw-colored solution was obtained. The pH of the solution was adjusted to 7 by the addition of dilute sulfuric acid. The methanol was thereafter distilled off under reduced pressure, and the remaining residue cooled to room temperature whereupon approximately 50 grams of N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-y1-1)ethyl]myristamide (also containing small amounts of the corresponding lauramide and palrnitamide) was recovered in essentially a quantitative yield as a white waxy product. For subsequent use as a softening agent, the N-methylol-N-[Z-(3-methylol imidazolidon- 2-yl-l)ethyl]myristamide product was dissolved in sufficient water to form a clear aqueous solution containing 50 percent by weight of the softening agent.

EXAMPLE VII The procedures described above in Example VI were repeated employing, however, as the Z-(irnidazolidon-Z- yl-l)ethylamine reactant, the crude product obtained by heating a reaction mixture consisting of 612 grams (6 moles) of diethylene triamine and 240 grams (4 moles) of urea to a temperature of 240 C. and subsequently distilling off the excess diethylene triamine under reduced pressure until a vapor temperature of 155 C. at 1 mm. of mercury pressure was reached. Upon completion of the methylolation, the N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-l)ethylJmyristamide (also containing small amounts of the corresponding laurarnide and palmitamide) thus produced in essentially a quantitative yield was found to be an effective softening agent in accordance with the invention.

EXAMPLE VIII Treating Procedure The fabric used was desized percale sheeting having a 96 x 90 (warp-fill) count. Numbered sheets, each measuring 10 inches x 24 inches, cut in the warp direction, were conditioned to constant weight at a temperature of 70 F. and 65 percent relative humidity. After immersion in the finishing composition at 50 C. for 2.5 minutes, the

10 sheets were put through a hand wringer and then reimmersed in the finishing composition for another 2.5 minutes. A second pass was made through the wringer and the specimens were allowed to air-dry, ironed at a low heat to remove wrinkles, oven-dried at C. for 10 minutes and cured at C. for five minutes. After washing with a 0.5 percent sodium carbonate solution, the sheets were given three cold water rinses and a boiling water rinse. The sheets were then brought again to constant weight at a temperature of 70 F. and 65 percent relative humidity.

Test Methods Tear strength-The tear strength was determined according to Federal Specification CCC-T-l9lb test method 5132. Three specimens, each measuring 4 inches x 2.5 inches, with the long dimension parallel to the warp direction, were cut from each sheet. By means of an Elrnendorf tear tester, the force in grams required to tear through 43 mm. of fabric was obtained in triplicate. The averages of the values are recorded below in Table A.

Chlorine retention-Damage caused by retained chlorine was determined according to AATCC tentative test method 69-52. Six specimens, each measuring 4 inches x 6 inches, were cut from each sheet with the long dimension parallel to warp direction. The test specimens were held in boiling water for three minutes and then -three of the specimens were immersed for 15 minutes in a Weight of test solution (containing 0.25 percent available chlorine) equal to 50 times the weight of the specimen. The control specimens and treated specimens were given six fresh water rinses and then dried by ironing at a rayon heat for approximately 10 seconds. After conditioning at 65 percent humidity and 70 F. for 2.4 hours, the control and treated specimens were placed in a scorch tester (Type 50-3, manufactured by the Atlas Electrical Devices Co., Chicago, 111.), at 365 F. for 30 seconds. The actual damage was determined by recording the breaking strength in kilograms of each specimen with an Amthor tensile tester, (manufactured by the Amthor Testing Instruments Co., Brooklyn, N.Y.). The average values of the breaking strengths of both the control and treated specimens are recorded below in Table A.

Crease resistance.Crease-resistance was determined by measuring the angle of recovery according to Federal Specification CCC'T-l9lb test method 5212. Specimens, each measuring 4 cm. x 1.5 cm., cut parallel to both the warp and fill direction were placed into a specimen holder to produce a fold 1.8 cm. from the free end. The specimens were subjected to a 1.5-pound weight for five minutes and then allowed to recover for five minutes while held on a protractor. The percent angle recovery in the warp direction is recorded below in Table A.

Discolorarion.Specimens, each measuring 4 inches x 6 inches, were subjected to accelerated ageing conditions in an oven at a temperature of 100 C. for 96 hours. The amount of yellowing was determined by measuring the refiectances on a Photovolt reflectorneter (model 610) before and after ageing. A deviation of 1.0 indicates a trace of discoloration, a deviation of -21) indicates noticeable yellowing while a deviation of 3.0, or more, indicates considerable yellowing.

In Table A below, softening agent No. 1 is N-rnethylol- N-[2-( 3-methy1ol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyl] stearamide, produced as described in Example II above; softening agent No. 2 is N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yll)ethyl]palmitamide, produced as described in Example IV above; softening agent No. 3 is a conventional glyoxalidine softening agent, I-(Z-hydroxyethyl)-2-heptadecyl imidazoline. Also included in the table for comparison are data obtained from runs in one of which water was substituted for'the finishing composition (untreated) and in another of which no softening agent was employed (control). As further tabulated, the concentration of softening agent in the finishing composition is indicated in percent by weight; the dry pick-up represents the EXAMPLE 1X amount of finishing composition retained by the treated material after drying and curing, and is indicated in per- In a manner similar to that described above in Excent by weight based upon the weight of the untreated ample VIII, finishing compositions were prepared containfabric; the amount of softening agent on the fabric is 5 ing diiferent softening agents of this invention in varying similarly indicated. amounts. In Table B below, softening agent No. 1 is TABLE A Congentm' Chlorine retention Crease retion of Amount of Disoolora- Softening agent soltening Dry softening Tea (breaking Str gth) (51152253 on employed agent in pick-up agent on strength aelgle of flectence n fabric Control Bleached recovery) devlat'on) Untreated 1,109 30.8 24.8 49.5 1 4.85 433 19.0 12.3 31.5 -0 0.5 5. 53 0.34 544 15.5 13.7 81.0 -1 0 1. 0 7. 95 0.70 513 15. 5 14. 5 s1. 0 -1. 0 2.0 9.03 1.45 688 18.1 14.8 55.0 -1 0 0. 5 5. 43 0. 30 503 19. s 11.2 78.5 --1.0 1. 0 5. 53 0.58 551 17. 2 11.5 77. s -1.0 2. 0 7.15 1. 51 715 is. 2 11.7 79. 0 -o. 5 0. 5 4. 0. 21 50s 15. 7 7. 0 75. 5 -s. 0 1. 0 7. 9o 0. 59 557 17. 7 10.8 80.0 -15 2. 0 9.28 1.50 513 17. s 9. s 75. 0 -5. 0

Crease Resistance Discloration (Percent angle of recovery (Reflectance deviation) N methylol N yl l ltmdaaolldon 2- 1 yl-l)ethyl]stearam1de, produced as described 1n Example ().5 III above; softening agent No. 2 is the corresponding 1 0 palmitamide, produced as described in Example V above; -l.0 softening agent No. 3 is the corresponding lauramide, pro- --l.() duced as described in Example V above; and softening 1 .0 agent No. 4 is the corresponding myristamide, produced as described in Example VII above. These finishing compositions were employed to treat cellulosic textile materiai essentially as described above in Example VIII, and

' the treated material tested as further described therein.

TABLE B Amount of Amount of Crease soltenlng Dry softening Tear resistance Discoloration Softening agent agent in pick-up agent on strength (percent (reflectance finishing fabric angle of deviation) composition recovery) 1, 082 45. 1 -o. 5 4. 25 432 80.6 1.o o 5 5.04 0.25 528 31.1 -1.0 1. 0 5. 2o 0. 49 550 79. 4 -1. 0 2. 0 5.80 1.02 581 53. 3 -1. 0 0. 5 5.15 0. 29 459 78.8 -1. 0 1. 0 5. 0. 52 517 79. 4 -1. 0 2.0 5.95 1.04 533 52.2 -1.0 0. 5 5. 35 o. 29 474 80.0 -o. 5 1. 0 5. 15 0. 53 450 78.8 1. 0 2. 0 5. 25 1. 09 512 79.1 -0. 5 o. 5 5. 3o 0. 25 450 so. 5 0 1. 0 5.35 0. 512 81.1 -1.0 2. 0 5.90 1. 03 549 83.8 0

EXAMPLE X Several of the advantages accruable in accordance with the invention, viz. improved tear strength accompanied by In a f Slfllllfll' t c bfld above 1n Example less chlorine retention and discoloration, can readily be VIII, fifilshmg OO'IBPOSIUOIIS were P p Contalmng seen from the above table. different softening agents in varying amounts. In Table C below, softening agent No. 1 is N-methylol-N-[2-(3- TABLE 0 Amount of Amount of Crease softening Dry softening Tear resistance Discolorotion Softening agent agent in pick-up agent on strength (percent (reflectance finishing fabric angle of deviation) composition recovery) Untreated 1,056 47. 7 -1 0 Control 5. 416 82. 2 1 0 N0. 0. 5 5 0. 30 469 83.3 I 0 No. l 1.0 6 20 0. 59 523 83.9 1 0 No. 1 2.0 6 62 1.15 549 84.4 1 0 No. 2 0.5 6 14 0.31 469 82.2 3 0 No. 2 1.0 6.33 0.60 485 81. 7 -3.0 No. 2 2.0 7.02 1.24 491 81. 7 -41) 13 methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-1)ethyl]stearamide prepared as described above in Example HI, softening agent No. 2 is a commercially available cationic softening agent. These finishing compositions were employed to treat cellulosic textile material essentially as described in Example VIII and the treated material tested as .further described therein.

EXAMPLE XI To test the permanence of the softening agents of the invention, finishing compositions were prepared as described above in Example VIII. Run. No. 1 employed a finishing composition containing no softening agent; run No. 2, employed a finishing composition containing 2 percent by weight of N-methylol-N-[2-(B-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyl]stearamide prepared as described above in Example III. The finishing compositions were then employed to treat cellulosic textile material essentially as described above in Example VIII, using ten specimens of cotton percale sheeting with each finishing composition. After calculating the amount of finishing composition retained by the treated material (add-on), samples were cut from the first specimen of each series and subjected to the Elmendorf tear test as described above in Example VIII and the Monsanto crease-recovery test as described in Monsanto Technical Service Bulletin T3045.1, published by the Monsanto Chemical Co, Springfield, Mass. All of the specimens were placed in a General Electric Filter-Flo washer, given four short cycle washings, allowed to air-dry, ironed, again brought to constant weight and weighed. This process'was repeated after 8, l6, and 24 washings. The short cycle washing consisted of a three-minute interval for filling with 17 gallons of water at 48 C., a four-minute agitation with about 100 grams of a commercially available detergent, a three-minute interval during which the wash water was removed, a three-minute interval for filling with 17 gallons of rinse water at 380 C., a two-minute rinse agitation and a three-minute damp-dry spin. The results obtained are indicated below in Table D. In the table the average weight of the fabric specimens and the add-on is indicated in grams.

TAB LE D (After padding, drying and curing) Average Average Tear Crease Run No. fabric add-on strength recovery Weight (After four washings) Average Percent Tear Crease Run No. weight loss of strength recovery loss add-n (After eight washings) (After sixteen washings) (After twenty-four washings) In addition, the hand of the cellulosic textile material treated in accordance with the invention as described 14 above was evaluated objectively by manually feeling the fabrics and visually observing their drape. In all cases, an improved hand was found for the material treated in accordance with the invention when compared with the control fiabric (no softening agent). This improved hand was still evident after twenty-four washings.

This application is a divisional of my copending application Serial No. 798,579, filed March 11, 1959, now United States Patent No. 3,024,246, issued March 6, 1962.

What is claimed is:

l. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic fibrous materials which comprises an aqueous solution containing (1) from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of a member selected from the group consisting of aminoplasts and an aminoplast-forrning compound reactive with the acylamide defined in 2) below, and (2) from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of a N-methylol-N-[2-(3-rnethylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-Uethyl] acylamide represented by the general formula:

HOOHr-bI CHI- Z-yI-UethyIJacylamide represented by the general formula:

HOCHPN/ NCHzGH2N( lR 32-- Ha H2OH wherein R is an 'alkyl radical possessing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, and (3) an acidic catalyst.

3. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing 1) from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of a member selected from the group consisting ofaminoplasts and an .aminoplast-forming compound reactive with the acylamide defined in 2) below,

and (2) from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of a N-rnethylol-N[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-Z- yl-l)ethyl]acylam.ide represented by the general formula:

HOCHr-N wherein R is an :alkenyl radical possessing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, and (3) an acidic catalyst.

4. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing (1) from about 5 percent to about 12 percent by weight of a member selected from the group consisting of amino-plasts and an aminoplastforming compound'reactive with the acylamide defined in (2) below, and (2) from about 0.3 percent to about 2 percent by weight of an N-rnethylol-N[2-(S-methylol imidazo- HO CH2-N wherein R is an alkyl radical possessing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, and (3) from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of an acidic catalyst.

5. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing (1) from about 5 percent to about 12 percent by weight of a member selected from the group consisting of aminoplasts and an aminoplast-forming compound reactive with the acylatmide defined in (2) below, and (2) from about 0.3 percent to about 2 percent by weight of an Namethylol-N-[2-(3 methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethyl]acylamide represented by the general formula:

radical possessing from about 8 and (3) from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of an acidic catalyst.

6. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of 1,3-dimethylol imidazolidon-Z from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2- amino-2-methylpropanol-l hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylok N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-Z-yl-l )ethyl] stearamide.

7. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of 1,3dimethylol imidazolidon-Z from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2- amino-Z-methylp-ropanol-l-hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol- N- 2- 3-rnethylol imidazolidon-2-yl-l ethyl]lauramide.

8. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of 1,3-dimethylol imidazolidon-Z from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2- amino-Z-methylpropanol-l-hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol- N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-1 )ethyl1palmitamide.

9. A finishing composition for use in the treatment of cellulosic textile material which comprises an aqueous solution containing from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of l,3dimethylol imidazolidon-2 from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2- amino-2-methylpropanol-l-hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol- N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon 2 yl l)ethyl]myristamide.

10. A crease-resistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnate-d with a composition comprising a mixture (1) from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of a member selected from the group consisting of aminoplasts and an aminoplast-forming compound reactive with the acylamide defined in (2) below, and (2) from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imiwherein R is an alkenyl to about 22 carbon atoms,

16 dazolidon-Z-yl-l)ethyllacylamide represented by the general formula:

wherein R is a monovalent aliphatic hydrocarbon radical possessing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms selected from the group consisting of alkyl and alkenyl, and subsequently cured.

11. A crease-resistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnated with a composition comprising a mixture of (1) from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of a member selected from the group consisting of aminoplasts and an aminoplastforming compound reactive with the acylamide defined an (2) below, and (2) from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylel-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethyHacylamide represented by the general formula:

HO (Ilia-N wherein R is an alkyl radical possessing trom about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, and (3) from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of an acidic catalyst, and subsequently cured.

12. A creaseresistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnated with a composition comprising a mixture of (1) from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by Weight of a member selected from the group consisting of aminoplasts and an aminoplastforming compound reactive with the acylamide defined in (2) below, and (2) from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethylJacylamide represented by the general formula:

wherein R is an alkenyl radical possessing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, and (3) from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of an acidic catalyst, and subsequently cured.

13. A crease-resistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnated with a composition comprising a mixture of from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of 1,3-dimethylol imidazolidon-Z, from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2-amino-2-methylpropanol-l-hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol N [2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-l)- ethyl] stearamide, and subsequently cured.

14. A crease-resistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnated with a composition comprising a mixture of from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of 1,3-dimethylol imidazolidon-Z, from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2-amino-2-methylpropanol-1-hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol N [2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-l)- ethyllpalmitamide, and subsequently cured.

15. A crease-resistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnated with a composition comprising a mixture of from about 3 percent to about 15 percent by weight of 1,3dimethy1o1 imidazo- Iidon-Z, from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of Z-amino-Z-methylpropanol-l-hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent by weight of an N-methylol N [2-(3-methy1ol imidazo1idon-2-y1-1)- ethylflauramide, and subsequently cured.

16. A crease-resistant cellulosic textile material evidencing improved tear strength and hand comprising a cellulosic textile material impregnated with a oomposi- 10 2,333,674

tion comprising a mixture of from about 3 percent to 18 about 15 percent by weight of LS-dimethylol imidazo- Iidon-Z, from about 0.5 percent to about 3 percent by weight of 2-amino-2-methylpropanol-l hydrochloride and from about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent of an N-methylol-N-[2-(3-methylol imidazolidon-2-yl-1)ethyl] myristamide, and subsequently cured.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS Hurwitz May 6, 1958 3,024,246 Goodman Mar. 6, 1962 

1. A FINISHING COMPOSITION FOR USE IN THE TREATMENT OF CELLULOSIC FIBROUS MATERIALS WHICH COMPRISES AN AQUEOUS SOLUTION CONTAINING (1) FROM ABOUT 3 PERCENT TO ABOUT 15 PERCENT BY WEIGHT OF A MEMBER SELECTED FROM THE GROUP CONSISTING OF AMINOPLASTS AND AN AMINOPLAST-FORMING COMPOUND REACTIVE WITH THE ACYLAMIDE DEFINED IN (2) BELOW, AND (2) FROM ABOUT 0.1 PERCENT TO ABOUT 5 PERCENT BY WEIGHT OF A N-METHYLOL-N- 3-METHLOL IMIDAZOLIDON-2-YL-1)ETHYL! ACYLAMIDE REPRESENTED BY THE GENERAL FORMULA: 